Inter Miami 's head coach, personally selected by Lionel Messi , has confirmed his departure from the club.
Javier Mascherano , who managed Messi for just over a year and previously played alongside him at Barcelona , will be departing the Herons with immediate effect. On Tuesday, the club published a lengthy statement from the 41-year-old Argentinian manager, in which he made clear that the decision to leave was entirely his own.
"I want to let everyone know that, for personal reasons, I have decided to end my tenure as head coach of Inter Miami CF," his statement, released by the club on Tuesday, began. Mascherano's backroom staff will also be departing alongside him, as per The Mirror US .
Messi had a hand in the selection of Mascherano as Tata Martino's replacement in 2024 -Credit:Photo by Leonardo Fernandez/Getty Images
"First and foremost, I would like to thank the Club for the trust they placed in me, every employee who is part of the organization for the collective effort, but especially the players, who made it possible for us to experience unforgettable moments."
Mascherano proceeded to express gratitude to supporters for their backing and noted he will cherish the success of his solitary year at the club. "I will always carry with me the memory of our first star, and wherever I am, I will continue to wish the Club all the best moving forward. I have no doubt that the Club will continue to achieve success in the future," his statement went on to say.
"Sending you all a big hug, and thank you for everything."
During his solitary full season in Miami, Mascherano steered the club to two trophies, including the Heron's maiden MLS Cup title and the Eastern Conference championship, in which Miami scored 101 goals, the highest in a single season.
Miami also became the first MLS club to advance to the knockout stages of the FIFA Club World Cup under Mascherano's leadership.
That said, the decision is unexpected, given that Messi played a part in Mascherano's appointment. Owner Jorge Mas confirmed as much during a press conference following Tata Martino's choice to depart Inter Miami, clearing the path for Messi's former colleague to take charge.
"I had a specific conversation with him. Leo gave me what I asked him, which was input," Mas said at the time, according to The Athletic . "That was Leo's involvement and engagement with me, which (happens) frankly all the time."
On Tuesday, Mas observed that despite his exit, Mascherano will "always hold a special place in the Inter Miami CF family.
"Not only for being a key part of unforgettable achievements, such as winning the MLS Cup and the team's historic performance at the Club World Cup, but also for the example he set through his dedication and daily work leading the team.
Mascherano led Miami to its first MLS Cup Final win in 2025 -Credit:Rich Storry/Getty Images
"We respect his decision and are deeply grateful for everything he contributed, wishing him nothing but the very best in his professional and personal future."
Guillermo Hoyos will serve as Miami's head coach for the foreseeable future.
